I found 20+ tiny gadgets that can handle big tasks (and they're under $50)

Did you know you don’t have to keep living with your cords all over your floor? This cord wrangler keeps my MacBook charger locked in place on my desk (and away from my cats). It also comes in two sizes if you need more cord storage. 

One of my favorite MagSafe accessories of all time is this magnetic wallet and stand combo. It’s an elevated tripod and stand that’s perfect for content creators and everyday folks alike. I use mine every day to follow recipes in the kitchen and workouts at the gym. There’s also a non-wallet option if you don’t need to store any cards, and it comes in a plethora of colors. 

Also: These two MagSafe accessories are the only ones your iPhone needs – here’s why

In 2026, you need to take steps to stay safe online. Expert Adrian Kingsley-Hughes has relied on the Yubico YubiKey to keep his passwords and personal info protected. “While passkeys offer much more security, sometimes, having a physical dongle that you have to use to authenticate that you are actually you is the way to go,” he says. 

Also: The security gadget I never leave home without (and it’s not an AirTag)

This popular remote control is worn like a ring and allows you to do more than just wirelessly scroll TikTok. Use it to turn pages while reading, change songs, control your camera, and more. ZDNET senior editor Allison Murray says she likes using hers to scroll through videos and entertainment during her workouts, especially since it’s hands-free. 

Also: I love this wireless remote for more productive workouts

Don’t be that person at the airport. Weigh your bags before you arrive and ease your travel stress with this luggage scale for $10. This is probably one of my best purchases yet.

Reviewer Adrian Kingsley-Hughes finds it handy and convenient to have a screwdriver, scissors, and a pair of pliers close at hand, but says most multitools are a no-go at airports and on commercial aircraft, often confiscated. That’s why he likes the TSA-friendly NexTool Mini multitool. It has no blade and features needle-nose pliers with wire cutters, tiny scissors, a bottle opener, a SIM extractor, and Phillips head and flathead screwdrivers. There’s also a handy keyring for attaching it to your keys. 

Also: They said I could bring this TSA-approved multitool on a plane – here’s how that went

This little tool remains one of our readers’ favorite products, but it’s recently dropped in price and is perhaps too good to pass up. While this handy ear camera used to sell for around $14, now you can get your own for only $9. Our resident gadgeteer, Adrian Kingsley-Hughes, says he loves his for tinkering, but you’re totally welcome to use it to check out your ear, too. 

Also: The weirdest tool I own is also one of the most useful

This was an impulse purchase because I was convinced it had to be better for cleaning AirPods than using Q-tips. And now my knowledge is your knowledge. This AirPods cleaning tool has a 4.5/5 star rating and over 10,000 reviews, so at least others agree with me. It’s dual-ended, with a soft bristle tool on one side and a sharp scraper and a small brush combo on the other. It does its job and is handy. Would buy again. 

Also: Your AirPods are gross. Grab this $7 tool to keep them clean